CA2342075C - Method and apparatus for forming plastic articles - Google Patents
Method and apparatus for forming plastic articles Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- CA2342075C CA2342075C CA002342075A CA2342075A CA2342075C CA 2342075 C CA2342075 C CA 2342075C CA 002342075 A CA002342075 A CA 002342075A CA 2342075 A CA2342075 A CA 2342075A CA 2342075 C CA2342075 C CA 2342075C
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- Prior art keywords
- extrudate
- cutting blade
- travel
- path
- rotating cutter
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
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Classifications
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B26—HAND CUTTING TOOLS; CUTTING; SEVERING
- B26D—CUTTING; DETAILS COMMON TO MACHINES FOR PERFORATING, PUNCHING, CUTTING-OUT, STAMPING-OUT OR SEVERING
- B26D1/00—Cutting through work characterised by the nature or movement of the cutting member or particular materials not otherwise provided for; Apparatus or machines therefor; Cutting members therefor
- B26D1/01—Cutting through work characterised by the nature or movement of the cutting member or particular materials not otherwise provided for; Apparatus or machines therefor; Cutting members therefor involving a cutting member which does not travel with the work
- B26D1/12—Cutting through work characterised by the nature or movement of the cutting member or particular materials not otherwise provided for; Apparatus or machines therefor; Cutting members therefor involving a cutting member which does not travel with the work having a cutting member moving about an axis
- B26D1/25—Cutting through work characterised by the nature or movement of the cutting member or particular materials not otherwise provided for; Apparatus or machines therefor; Cutting members therefor involving a cutting member which does not travel with the work having a cutting member moving about an axis with a non-circular cutting member
- B26D1/26—Cutting through work characterised by the nature or movement of the cutting member or particular materials not otherwise provided for; Apparatus or machines therefor; Cutting members therefor involving a cutting member which does not travel with the work having a cutting member moving about an axis with a non-circular cutting member moving about an axis substantially perpendicular to the line of cut
- B26D1/28—Cutting through work characterised by the nature or movement of the cutting member or particular materials not otherwise provided for; Apparatus or machines therefor; Cutting members therefor involving a cutting member which does not travel with the work having a cutting member moving about an axis with a non-circular cutting member moving about an axis substantially perpendicular to the line of cut and rotating continuously in one direction during cutting
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- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B26—HAND CUTTING TOOLS; CUTTING; SEVERING
- B26D—CUTTING; DETAILS COMMON TO MACHINES FOR PERFORATING, PUNCHING, CUTTING-OUT, STAMPING-OUT OR SEVERING
- B26D3/00—Cutting work characterised by the nature of the cut made; Apparatus therefor
- B26D3/10—Making cuts of other than simple rectilinear form
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- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B29—WORKING OF PLASTICS; WORKING OF SUBSTANCES IN A PLASTIC STATE IN GENERAL
- B29C—SHAPING OR JOINING OF PLASTICS; SHAPING OF MATERIAL IN A PLASTIC STATE, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; AFTER-TREATMENT OF THE SHAPED PRODUCTS, e.g. REPAIRING
- B29C48/00—Extrusion moulding, i.e. expressing the moulding material through a die or nozzle which imparts the desired form; Apparatus therefor
- B29C48/001—Combinations of extrusion moulding with other shaping operations
- B29C48/0022—Combinations of extrusion moulding with other shaping operations combined with cutting
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B29—WORKING OF PLASTICS; WORKING OF SUBSTANCES IN A PLASTIC STATE IN GENERAL
- B29C—SHAPING OR JOINING OF PLASTICS; SHAPING OF MATERIAL IN A PLASTIC STATE, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; AFTER-TREATMENT OF THE SHAPED PRODUCTS, e.g. REPAIRING
- B29C2793/00—Shaping techniques involving a cutting or machining operation
- B29C2793/0027—Cutting off
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B29—WORKING OF PLASTICS; WORKING OF SUBSTANCES IN A PLASTIC STATE IN GENERAL
- B29C—SHAPING OR JOINING OF PLASTICS; SHAPING OF MATERIAL IN A PLASTIC STATE, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; AFTER-TREATMENT OF THE SHAPED PRODUCTS, e.g. REPAIRING
- B29C48/00—Extrusion moulding, i.e. expressing the moulding material through a die or nozzle which imparts the desired form; Apparatus therefor
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B29—WORKING OF PLASTICS; WORKING OF SUBSTANCES IN A PLASTIC STATE IN GENERAL
- B29C—SHAPING OR JOINING OF PLASTICS; SHAPING OF MATERIAL IN A PLASTIC STATE, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; AFTER-TREATMENT OF THE SHAPED PRODUCTS, e.g. REPAIRING
- B29C48/00—Extrusion moulding, i.e. expressing the moulding material through a die or nozzle which imparts the desired form; Apparatus therefor
- B29C48/001—Combinations of extrusion moulding with other shaping operations
- B29C48/0019—Combinations of extrusion moulding with other shaping operations combined with shaping by flattening, folding or bending
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B29—WORKING OF PLASTICS; WORKING OF SUBSTANCES IN A PLASTIC STATE IN GENERAL
- B29C—SHAPING OR JOINING OF PLASTICS; SHAPING OF MATERIAL IN A PLASTIC STATE, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; AFTER-TREATMENT OF THE SHAPED PRODUCTS, e.g. REPAIRING
- B29C48/00—Extrusion moulding, i.e. expressing the moulding material through a die or nozzle which imparts the desired form; Apparatus therefor
- B29C48/03—Extrusion moulding, i.e. expressing the moulding material through a die or nozzle which imparts the desired form; Apparatus therefor characterised by the shape of the extruded material at extrusion
- B29C48/07—Flat, e.g. panels
- B29C48/08—Flat, e.g. panels flexible, e.g. films
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B29—WORKING OF PLASTICS; WORKING OF SUBSTANCES IN A PLASTIC STATE IN GENERAL
- B29C—SHAPING OR JOINING OF PLASTICS; SHAPING OF MATERIAL IN A PLASTIC STATE, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; AFTER-TREATMENT OF THE SHAPED PRODUCTS, e.g. REPAIRING
- B29C67/00—Shaping techniques not covered by groups B29C39/00 - B29C65/00, B29C70/00 or B29C73/00
- B29C67/0044—Shaping techniques not covered by groups B29C39/00 - B29C65/00, B29C70/00 or B29C73/00 for shaping edges or extremities
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B29—WORKING OF PLASTICS; WORKING OF SUBSTANCES IN A PLASTIC STATE IN GENERAL
- B29L—INDEXING SCHEME ASSOCIATED WITH SUBCLASS B29C, RELATING TO PARTICULAR ARTICLES
- B29L2031/00—Other particular articles
- B29L2031/766—Poles, masts, posts
Abstract
A method and apparatus for forming plastic articles is provided. A rotating cutter, having a cutting blade mounted thereto, is disposed adjacent to a continuous extrudate.
Upon rotation of the cutter, non-linear cutting edges formed on the cutting blade simultaneously cause a predetermined length of the extrudate to be severed and formed.
The method and apparatus are well-suited for forming plastic articles having an elongated shape with rounded ends.
Upon rotation of the cutter, non-linear cutting edges formed on the cutting blade simultaneously cause a predetermined length of the extrudate to be severed and formed.
The method and apparatus are well-suited for forming plastic articles having an elongated shape with rounded ends.
Description
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
1. Field of the Invention. This invention relates to methods for forming an article from a continuous extrusion process and, more particularly, to methods for foaming plastic articles from a continuous extnision process.
1. Field of the Invention. This invention relates to methods for forming an article from a continuous extrusion process and, more particularly, to methods for foaming plastic articles from a continuous extnision process.
2. Description of Prior Art. In the prior art, techniques are known for foaming plastic articles from a continuous extrudate. Rotary punches are commonly used to form such articles, wherein the extrudate is fed between a synchronized, rotating pair of mating punch and die. The punch and die simultaneously sever the extrudate and form it to a desired shape. Rotary punches, however, suffer from several drawbacks. First, the punch and die are relatively expensive. Second, the punch and die are designed for a specific application, and generally do not include any adjustability (i.e., punch and die generally carrot be adjusted to form different size articles). Third, tooling and maintenance costs are relatively high, with replacement parts, including tooling, often being only obtainable from the original manufacturer.
Separately, techniques have been developed in the prior art for using a rotary straight-edged knife for severing an extrudate into desired lengths. The following patents disclose such a technique: U.S. Patent No. 2,082,833 to Haupt; U.S. Patent No.
4,585,600 to Rollyson et al.; and, U.S. Patent No. 4,740,149 to Kristensen.
The severed lengths, however, have straight, planar ends defined by the straight-edged Imife. Any additional shaping and forming required for the severed lengths must be done in further steps.
It is an object of the subject invention to provide a method and apparatus for forming plastic articles having non-planar ends.
949547v1 It is also an object of the subject invention to provide a method and apparatus for simultmeously severing and forming predetermined lengths of an extrudate.
949547v l SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
The aforementioned objects are met by a method and apparatus for simultaneously seveuing and forming predetermined lengths of an extrudate to form plastic articles. The method and apparatus rely on a cutting blade having at least one non-linear cutting edge.
The cutting edge is defined on the cutting blade which is mounted on a rotating cutter.
The rotating cutter is disposed adjacent to a continuous extrudate, such that the path of travel of the cutting blade intersects the path of travel of the extrudate. In this manner, upon rotation of the cutter, the cutting edge causes a length of the extrudate to be severed from the remainder of the extrudate. Simultaneously, the non-linear cutting edge impacts a non-planar shape to either the severed end of the predetermined length or the remainder of the extn>date. It is preferred that the cutter have at least two non-linear cutting edges so that the trailing edge of a severed end of a predetermined length of extmdate can be simultaneously formed with a desired shape as well as the leading end of the remainder extrudate. Thus, both ends of a predetermined length can be formed with non-planar ends. After being severed and formed from the extrudate, the predetermined length of extrudate is allowed to cool to form the article.
The method of the subject invention is particularly well-suited for forming elongated auticles having rounded ends, such as popsicle sticks, and spreading sticks for applying spreads, cheeses, and other comestibles. Furthermore, the rotation of the cutter and/or the feed rate of the extn>date are preferably adjustable to vary the predetermined length of extmdate that is to be cut, and the cutter can be readily replaced to enable the formation of different shapes on the ends of the articles. With these two features, the subject invention provides versatility in allowing for various sized products to be formed.
Separately, techniques have been developed in the prior art for using a rotary straight-edged knife for severing an extrudate into desired lengths. The following patents disclose such a technique: U.S. Patent No. 2,082,833 to Haupt; U.S. Patent No.
4,585,600 to Rollyson et al.; and, U.S. Patent No. 4,740,149 to Kristensen.
The severed lengths, however, have straight, planar ends defined by the straight-edged Imife. Any additional shaping and forming required for the severed lengths must be done in further steps.
It is an object of the subject invention to provide a method and apparatus for forming plastic articles having non-planar ends.
949547v1 It is also an object of the subject invention to provide a method and apparatus for simultmeously severing and forming predetermined lengths of an extrudate.
949547v l SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
The aforementioned objects are met by a method and apparatus for simultaneously seveuing and forming predetermined lengths of an extrudate to form plastic articles. The method and apparatus rely on a cutting blade having at least one non-linear cutting edge.
The cutting edge is defined on the cutting blade which is mounted on a rotating cutter.
The rotating cutter is disposed adjacent to a continuous extrudate, such that the path of travel of the cutting blade intersects the path of travel of the extrudate. In this manner, upon rotation of the cutter, the cutting edge causes a length of the extrudate to be severed from the remainder of the extrudate. Simultaneously, the non-linear cutting edge impacts a non-planar shape to either the severed end of the predetermined length or the remainder of the extn>date. It is preferred that the cutter have at least two non-linear cutting edges so that the trailing edge of a severed end of a predetermined length of extmdate can be simultaneously formed with a desired shape as well as the leading end of the remainder extrudate. Thus, both ends of a predetermined length can be formed with non-planar ends. After being severed and formed from the extrudate, the predetermined length of extrudate is allowed to cool to form the article.
The method of the subject invention is particularly well-suited for forming elongated auticles having rounded ends, such as popsicle sticks, and spreading sticks for applying spreads, cheeses, and other comestibles. Furthermore, the rotation of the cutter and/or the feed rate of the extn>date are preferably adjustable to vary the predetermined length of extmdate that is to be cut, and the cutter can be readily replaced to enable the formation of different shapes on the ends of the articles. With these two features, the subject invention provides versatility in allowing for various sized products to be formed.
949547v1 The invention will be better understood through a study of the following detailed description and accompanying drawings.
949547v1 BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
FIG. 1 is a schematic of an apparatus formed in accordance with the subject invention;
FIG. 2 is a side elevational view of a cutter with a cutting blade mounted thereto;
FIG. 3 is a top partial view of the cutting blade severing and forming a predetermined length of an extrudate;
FIG. 4 is a front elevational view of the process described in FIG. 3;
FIG. 5 is a partial exploded view showing a severed length of extrudate having a formed trailing end and the leading end of the remainder extrudate being formed; and, FIG. 6 is a plan view of a finished plastic article.
949547v1 DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
Referring generally to the FIGS., a method and apparatus are described for forming plastic articles. FIG. 1 schematically depicts an apparatus 10 which generally includes an extuuder 12, feed rollers 14, two bushings 16, 18, and a rotating cutter 20.
The extnider 12 is of any type known to those skilled in the art for forniing an elongated extmdate E. The subject invention is concerned with forming plastic articles, and th115 the extmdate E is to be of a plastic material. Other materials may be used. For example, the extruder 12 can be formed with a slot die 22 through which molten plastic material is forced to form the extrudate E. Preferably, the extrudate E is rectangular in cross-section, but can be formed with other cross-sectional shapes.
Additionally, it is preferred that faces 24 be formed with a greater width w (FIG. 3) than height h of sides 26 (FIG. 4).
The feed rollers 14 are positioned to impinge upon the extrudate E to provide a driving force thereto away from the extruder E and towards the rotating cutter 20. Any design of the feed rollers 14 may be used, as well as different quantities thereof. The feed rollers 14 are driven by a feed rate controller 28, which preferably has a variable rate of control. As such, through adjustment of the feed rate controller 28, the rates of rotation of the feed rollers 14 may be adjusted to vary the driving speed of the extrudate E.
The bushings 16, 18, are both generally tubular in shape, having passages 30 dimensioned to allow the extrudate E to pass therethrough. The bushings 16 and 18 are axially aligned with the openings 30 being aligned so that the extrudate E can be fed straight tluough the bushing 16, and into the bushing 18. As shown in FIG. 3, the bushings 16, 18 are both rigidly supported by a brace 32, with an axial space S being G
949547v1 defined between the bushings 16, 18. The brace 32 may be a unitary constriction, but other supports can be used. The axial space S is set such that a cutting blade 34 may pass between the bushings 16, 18, as described below. In addition, the axial space S is kept to a minimum so as to maximize the backing force provided by the bushings 16, 18 to the exhmdate E during a cutting operation. The bushings 16, 18, in effect, serve as anvils which counteract the cutting force supplied by the cutting blade 34, to ensure the extnidate E is severed and formed cleanly.
As best shown in FIG. 2, the rotating cutter 20 is generally circular shaped and has the cutting blade 34 mounted on the periphery thereof. It is preferred that the cutting blade 34 be removable from the rotating cutter 20, but it may also be rigidly fixed thereto.
Although not shown, a plurality of evenly-spaced cutting blades may be mounted to the periphery of the rotating cutter 20. Using teclmiques known to those skilled in the art, the rotating cutter 20 should be provided with a counterweight 21 to ensure proper balance during rotation of the rotating cutter 20, especially when one of the cutting blades 34 is used. The rotating cutter 20 is disposed adjacent to the extmdate E, so that upon rotation thereof, the path of travel of the cutting blade 34 will intersect the path of travel of the extnidate E. In addition, referring to FIG. 1, the rotating cutter 20 is driven by a driver 36, which preferably can adjust the driving rate of the rotating cutter 20.
Finally, the rotating cutter 20 is disposed to rotate about an axis 38, which preferably is generally parallel to the path of travel of the extrudate E.
The cutting blade 34, as best shown in FIG. 5, preferably has two non-linear cutting edges 40. The cutting edges 40 are formed in accordance with techniques la~own by those skilled in the art for forming tool cutting edges. In a preferred embodiment, the 949547v1 cutting blade 34 is a unitary piece; however, the cutting blade 34 can be a modular component, with the cutting edges 40 being formed on one or more pieces.
The non-linear cutting edges 40 are preferably concave in shape but other non-linear shapes are possible. The shapes of the non-linear cutting edges 40 are imparted to the extrudate in foaming a plastic auticle while severing a predetermined length. The two non-linear cutting edges 40 need not have the same shape. Alternatively, only one of the non-linear cutting edges 40 can be provided. Also, as shown in FIG. 3, it is preferred that the non-linear cutting edges 40 cover a greater length then the width w of the extrudate E
to ensure the entire width w is severed and formed clearly.
The rotating cutter 20 is located in the apparatus 10 so that the cutting blade 34 has a path of travel that transversely intersects the path of travel of the extrudate E. In this manner, the non-linear cutting edges of 40 may simultaneously severe a predetermined length 44 of the extnidate E from a remainder 48 of the extrudate E. It is preferred that one of the faces 24 of the extrudate E be entirely stuicken against simultaneously by the non-linear cutting edges 40. It is further preferred that the entire lengths of the non-linear cutting edges 40 strike simultaneously against the extnidate E.
To achieve this result, the axis 38, defining rotation of the rotating cutter 20, is preferably generally coplanar with the extrudate E.
In operation, the extrudate E is continuously extruded by the extruder 12 and fed by the feed rollers 14 into the bushing 1G, and then into the bushing 18. The feed rate controller 28 and the driver 3G are synchronized to define the length of the predetermined length 44 to be severed and formed. The feed rate controller 28 and/or the driver 3G can be varied to adjust the length of the predetermined length 44. Specifically, with the 949547v 1 rotation speed of the rotating cutter 20 being held constant, an increase in the feed rate applied by the feed rate controller 28 results in an elongation of the predetermined length 44; conversely, a decrease in the feed rate applied by the feed rate controller 28 results in a foreshortening of the predetermined length 44. Also, with the feed rate being held constant, an increase in the rotating speed of the rotating cutter 20 applied by the driver 36 results in a foreshortening of the predetermined length 44, whereas, a decrease results in an elongation of the predetermined length 44.
Upon rotation of the rotating cutter 20, the cutting blade 34 traverses its path of travel. Preferably, the paths of travel of the cutting blade 34 and the extrudate E are generally perpendicular. The cutting blade 34 engages the extrudate E, with the bushings 16, 18, counteracting the downward force of the cutting blade 34. The non-linear cutting edges 40 cause the predetermined length 44 to be severed from the remainder 48.
Simultaneously, the non-linear cutting edges 40 impart their respective shapes to foam a trailing end 42 of the predetermined length 44 and a leading end 46 of the remainder 48.
With the leading end 46 of the remainder 48 being formed, the extrudate E is further fed and the cutting blade 34 causes another predetermined length 44 to be severed.
The prior leading end 46 of the remainder 48 is now a leading end 52 of the predetermined length 44. Accordingly, the leading end 52 and the trailing end 42 of the predetermined length 44 have been sequentially severed and formed.
The predetermined length 44 is at least partially disposed in the bushing 18 after being severed and formed, wherein it may fall out, or be ejected upon the further feeding of the extrudate E. The predetermined length 44 is allowed to cool to form a finished 949547v1 plastic article 50. The plastic article 50 may be a plastic popsicle stick, or other plastic stick having rounded ends, such as a food spreading implement.
If one of the non-linear cutting edges 40 is provided, then one of the trailing end 42 and the leading end 46 will be formed with a non-linear shape.
As is readily apparent, numerous modifications and changes may readily occur to those skilled in the art. Hence, it is not desired to limit the invention to the exact construction and operation shown and described and, accordingly, all suitable modification equivalents may be resorted to falling within the scope of the invention as claimed.
949547v1
949547v1 BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
FIG. 1 is a schematic of an apparatus formed in accordance with the subject invention;
FIG. 2 is a side elevational view of a cutter with a cutting blade mounted thereto;
FIG. 3 is a top partial view of the cutting blade severing and forming a predetermined length of an extrudate;
FIG. 4 is a front elevational view of the process described in FIG. 3;
FIG. 5 is a partial exploded view showing a severed length of extrudate having a formed trailing end and the leading end of the remainder extrudate being formed; and, FIG. 6 is a plan view of a finished plastic article.
949547v1 DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
Referring generally to the FIGS., a method and apparatus are described for forming plastic articles. FIG. 1 schematically depicts an apparatus 10 which generally includes an extuuder 12, feed rollers 14, two bushings 16, 18, and a rotating cutter 20.
The extnider 12 is of any type known to those skilled in the art for forniing an elongated extmdate E. The subject invention is concerned with forming plastic articles, and th115 the extmdate E is to be of a plastic material. Other materials may be used. For example, the extruder 12 can be formed with a slot die 22 through which molten plastic material is forced to form the extrudate E. Preferably, the extrudate E is rectangular in cross-section, but can be formed with other cross-sectional shapes.
Additionally, it is preferred that faces 24 be formed with a greater width w (FIG. 3) than height h of sides 26 (FIG. 4).
The feed rollers 14 are positioned to impinge upon the extrudate E to provide a driving force thereto away from the extruder E and towards the rotating cutter 20. Any design of the feed rollers 14 may be used, as well as different quantities thereof. The feed rollers 14 are driven by a feed rate controller 28, which preferably has a variable rate of control. As such, through adjustment of the feed rate controller 28, the rates of rotation of the feed rollers 14 may be adjusted to vary the driving speed of the extrudate E.
The bushings 16, 18, are both generally tubular in shape, having passages 30 dimensioned to allow the extrudate E to pass therethrough. The bushings 16 and 18 are axially aligned with the openings 30 being aligned so that the extrudate E can be fed straight tluough the bushing 16, and into the bushing 18. As shown in FIG. 3, the bushings 16, 18 are both rigidly supported by a brace 32, with an axial space S being G
949547v1 defined between the bushings 16, 18. The brace 32 may be a unitary constriction, but other supports can be used. The axial space S is set such that a cutting blade 34 may pass between the bushings 16, 18, as described below. In addition, the axial space S is kept to a minimum so as to maximize the backing force provided by the bushings 16, 18 to the exhmdate E during a cutting operation. The bushings 16, 18, in effect, serve as anvils which counteract the cutting force supplied by the cutting blade 34, to ensure the extnidate E is severed and formed cleanly.
As best shown in FIG. 2, the rotating cutter 20 is generally circular shaped and has the cutting blade 34 mounted on the periphery thereof. It is preferred that the cutting blade 34 be removable from the rotating cutter 20, but it may also be rigidly fixed thereto.
Although not shown, a plurality of evenly-spaced cutting blades may be mounted to the periphery of the rotating cutter 20. Using teclmiques known to those skilled in the art, the rotating cutter 20 should be provided with a counterweight 21 to ensure proper balance during rotation of the rotating cutter 20, especially when one of the cutting blades 34 is used. The rotating cutter 20 is disposed adjacent to the extmdate E, so that upon rotation thereof, the path of travel of the cutting blade 34 will intersect the path of travel of the extnidate E. In addition, referring to FIG. 1, the rotating cutter 20 is driven by a driver 36, which preferably can adjust the driving rate of the rotating cutter 20.
Finally, the rotating cutter 20 is disposed to rotate about an axis 38, which preferably is generally parallel to the path of travel of the extrudate E.
The cutting blade 34, as best shown in FIG. 5, preferably has two non-linear cutting edges 40. The cutting edges 40 are formed in accordance with techniques la~own by those skilled in the art for forming tool cutting edges. In a preferred embodiment, the 949547v1 cutting blade 34 is a unitary piece; however, the cutting blade 34 can be a modular component, with the cutting edges 40 being formed on one or more pieces.
The non-linear cutting edges 40 are preferably concave in shape but other non-linear shapes are possible. The shapes of the non-linear cutting edges 40 are imparted to the extrudate in foaming a plastic auticle while severing a predetermined length. The two non-linear cutting edges 40 need not have the same shape. Alternatively, only one of the non-linear cutting edges 40 can be provided. Also, as shown in FIG. 3, it is preferred that the non-linear cutting edges 40 cover a greater length then the width w of the extrudate E
to ensure the entire width w is severed and formed clearly.
The rotating cutter 20 is located in the apparatus 10 so that the cutting blade 34 has a path of travel that transversely intersects the path of travel of the extrudate E. In this manner, the non-linear cutting edges of 40 may simultaneously severe a predetermined length 44 of the extnidate E from a remainder 48 of the extrudate E. It is preferred that one of the faces 24 of the extrudate E be entirely stuicken against simultaneously by the non-linear cutting edges 40. It is further preferred that the entire lengths of the non-linear cutting edges 40 strike simultaneously against the extnidate E.
To achieve this result, the axis 38, defining rotation of the rotating cutter 20, is preferably generally coplanar with the extrudate E.
In operation, the extrudate E is continuously extruded by the extruder 12 and fed by the feed rollers 14 into the bushing 1G, and then into the bushing 18. The feed rate controller 28 and the driver 3G are synchronized to define the length of the predetermined length 44 to be severed and formed. The feed rate controller 28 and/or the driver 3G can be varied to adjust the length of the predetermined length 44. Specifically, with the 949547v 1 rotation speed of the rotating cutter 20 being held constant, an increase in the feed rate applied by the feed rate controller 28 results in an elongation of the predetermined length 44; conversely, a decrease in the feed rate applied by the feed rate controller 28 results in a foreshortening of the predetermined length 44. Also, with the feed rate being held constant, an increase in the rotating speed of the rotating cutter 20 applied by the driver 36 results in a foreshortening of the predetermined length 44, whereas, a decrease results in an elongation of the predetermined length 44.
Upon rotation of the rotating cutter 20, the cutting blade 34 traverses its path of travel. Preferably, the paths of travel of the cutting blade 34 and the extrudate E are generally perpendicular. The cutting blade 34 engages the extrudate E, with the bushings 16, 18, counteracting the downward force of the cutting blade 34. The non-linear cutting edges 40 cause the predetermined length 44 to be severed from the remainder 48.
Simultaneously, the non-linear cutting edges 40 impart their respective shapes to foam a trailing end 42 of the predetermined length 44 and a leading end 46 of the remainder 48.
With the leading end 46 of the remainder 48 being formed, the extrudate E is further fed and the cutting blade 34 causes another predetermined length 44 to be severed.
The prior leading end 46 of the remainder 48 is now a leading end 52 of the predetermined length 44. Accordingly, the leading end 52 and the trailing end 42 of the predetermined length 44 have been sequentially severed and formed.
The predetermined length 44 is at least partially disposed in the bushing 18 after being severed and formed, wherein it may fall out, or be ejected upon the further feeding of the extrudate E. The predetermined length 44 is allowed to cool to form a finished 949547v1 plastic article 50. The plastic article 50 may be a plastic popsicle stick, or other plastic stick having rounded ends, such as a food spreading implement.
If one of the non-linear cutting edges 40 is provided, then one of the trailing end 42 and the leading end 46 will be formed with a non-linear shape.
As is readily apparent, numerous modifications and changes may readily occur to those skilled in the art. Hence, it is not desired to limit the invention to the exact construction and operation shown and described and, accordingly, all suitable modification equivalents may be resorted to falling within the scope of the invention as claimed.
949547v1
Claims (18)
1. A method for forming plastic articles, said method comprising the steps of:
extruding a plastic material to form a continuous extrudate;
providing a rotating cutter having a cutting blade with at least one non-linear cutting edge, said cutting blade having a path of travel which transversely intersects a path of travel of said extrudate; and, rotating said rotating cutter with said cutting blade passing through the path of travel of said extrudate, said cutting blade simultaneously severing a predetermined length of said extrudate to form an article and forming at least one of a trailing end of the severed length of said extrudate and a leading end of the remainder of said extrudate, wherein the respective formed shape of at least one of said trailing end of said severed length and said leading end of the remainder being imparted by said non-linear cutting edge.
extruding a plastic material to form a continuous extrudate;
providing a rotating cutter having a cutting blade with at least one non-linear cutting edge, said cutting blade having a path of travel which transversely intersects a path of travel of said extrudate; and, rotating said rotating cutter with said cutting blade passing through the path of travel of said extrudate, said cutting blade simultaneously severing a predetermined length of said extrudate to form an article and forming at least one of a trailing end of the severed length of said extrudate and a leading end of the remainder of said extrudate, wherein the respective formed shape of at least one of said trailing end of said severed length and said leading end of the remainder being imparted by said non-linear cutting edge.
2. A method as in claim 1 further comprising the steps of providing a first tubular bushing, and passing said extrudate through said first bushing, wherein the path of travel of said cutting blade is in proximity to said first bushing.
3. A method as in claim 2 further comprising the steps of providing a second tubular bushing and passing said extrudate through said second bushing, wherein the path of travel of said cutting blade partially passes between said first and second bushings.
4. A method as in claim 1, wherein said rotating cutter rotates about an axis that is generally parallel to said path of travel of said extrudate.
5. A method as in claim 1, wherein the rate of rotation of said rotating cutter is variable to selectively adjust the predetermined length.
6. A method as in claim 1, wherein the feed rate of said extrudate is variable to selectively adjust the predetermined length.
7. A method as in claim 1, wherein said path of travel of said cutting blade is substantially perpendicular to said path of travel of said extrudate.
8. A method as in claim 1, wherein said cutting blade is removably mounted to said rotating cutter.
9. A method as in claim 1, wherein said cutting blade having two non-linear cutting edges, said cutting blade simultaneously forming both said trailing end of the severed length of said extrudate and said leading end of the remainder of said extrudate, and wherein the respective formed shapes of said trailing end of said severed length and said leading end of the remainder being respectively imparted by said non-linear cutting edges.
10. An apparatus for forming plastic articles comprising:
an extruder for forming a continuous extrudate; and a rotating cutter having a cutting blade with at least one non-linear cutting edge, said cutting blade having a path of travel which transversely intersects a path of travel of an extrudate formed by said extruder.
an extruder for forming a continuous extrudate; and a rotating cutter having a cutting blade with at least one non-linear cutting edge, said cutting blade having a path of travel which transversely intersects a path of travel of an extrudate formed by said extruder.
11. An apparatus as in claim 10, further comprising a first tubular bushing dimensioned and positioned to allow the passage therethrough of an extrudate formed by said extruder, the path of travel of said cutting blade being in proximity to said first bushing.
12. An apparatus as in claim 11, further comprising a second tubular bushing dimensioned and positioned to allow the passage therethrough of an extrudate formed by said extruder, wherein the path of travel of said cutting blade partially passes between said first and second bushings.
13. An apparatus as in claim 10, wherein said rotating cutter rotates about an axis that is generally parallel to said path of travel of said extrudate.
14. An apparatus as in claim 10, wherein the rate of rotation of said rotating cutter is variable to selectively adjust the predetermined length.
15. An apparatus as in claim 10, wherein the feed rate of said extrudate is variable to selectively adjust the predetermined length.
16. An apparatus as in claim 10, wherein said path of travel of said cutting blade is substantially perpendicular to said path of travel of said extrudate.
17. An apparatus as in claim 10, wherein said cutting blade is removably mounted to said rotating cutter.
18. An apparatus as in claim 10, wherein said cutting blade having two non-linear cutting edges.
Applications Claiming Priority (2)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| US09/535,674 US6458302B1 (en) | 2000-03-23 | 2000-03-23 | System and method for forming plastic articles |
| US09/535,674 | 2000-03-23 |
Publications (2)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA2342075A1 CA2342075A1 (en) | 2001-09-22 |
| CA2342075C true CA2342075C (en) | 2005-01-11 |
Family
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Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA002342075A Expired - Fee Related CA2342075C (en) | 2000-03-23 | 2001-03-22 | Method and apparatus for forming plastic articles |
Country Status (3)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| US (1) | US6458302B1 (en) |
| CA (1) | CA2342075C (en) |
| MX (1) | MXPA01003034A (en) |
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| US20040185131A1 (en) * | 2003-03-18 | 2004-09-23 | Gold Medal Products Company | Cotton candy machine with tubular heater |
| US8715825B2 (en) | 2005-01-06 | 2014-05-06 | Selig Sealing Products, Inc. | Two-piece pull-tab sealing member with improved heat distribution for a container |
| US8057896B2 (en) * | 2005-01-06 | 2011-11-15 | Selig Sealing Products, Inc. | Pull-tab sealing member with improved heat distribution for a container |
| JP2008535703A (en) | 2005-04-15 | 2008-09-04 | イリノイ トゥール ワークス インコーポレイティド | Seal material laminate |
| DE602006006791D1 (en) | 2006-03-20 | 2009-06-25 | Selig Sealing Products Inc | Multi-layer film for closing of vessels |
| ATE534512T1 (en) * | 2006-12-20 | 2011-12-15 | Selig Sealing Products Inc | LAMINATE |
| US8703265B2 (en) * | 2007-03-23 | 2014-04-22 | Selig Sealing Products, Inc. | Container seal with removal tab and piercable holographic security seal |
| US9624008B2 (en) | 2007-03-23 | 2017-04-18 | Selig Sealing Products, Inc. | Container seal with removal tab and security ring seal |
| US20080233339A1 (en) * | 2007-03-23 | 2008-09-25 | Thorstensen-Woll Robert William | Laminated container seal with removal tab bound by adhesive |
| US8522990B2 (en) * | 2007-03-23 | 2013-09-03 | Selig Sealing Products, Inc. | Container seal with removal tab and holographic security ring seal |
| SI2014461T1 (en) * | 2007-06-22 | 2010-02-26 | Selig Sealing Products Inc | A seal for a container |
| US20090040746A1 (en) * | 2007-08-10 | 2009-02-12 | Rdi Foods, L.L.C. | Novelty stick holders for food on sticks |
| BRPI0815325A2 (en) * | 2007-08-24 | 2019-09-24 | Selig Sealing Products Inc | cover substrate capable of being bonded to a rim of a container, method of hygienically covering a top portion of a container and hygienically covered container |
| WO2012135353A1 (en) | 2011-03-28 | 2012-10-04 | Selig Sealing Products, Inc. | Laminate structure to stabilize a dimensionally unstable layer |
| US8746484B2 (en) | 2011-06-24 | 2014-06-10 | Selig Sealing Products, Inc. | Sealing member with removable portion for exposing and forming a dispensing feature |
| WO2013134665A1 (en) | 2012-03-08 | 2013-09-12 | Selig Sealing Products, Inc. | Container sealing member with protected security component and removal tab |
| US9028963B2 (en) | 2012-09-05 | 2015-05-12 | Selig Sealing Products, Inc. | Tamper evident tabbed sealing member having a foamed polymer layer |
| US9193513B2 (en) | 2012-09-05 | 2015-11-24 | Selig Sealing Products, Inc. | Tabbed inner seal |
| CA2846164C (en) | 2013-03-15 | 2020-11-10 | Selig Sealing Products, Inc. | Inner seal with a sub tab layer |
| CA2846021C (en) | 2013-03-15 | 2021-06-08 | Selig Sealing Products, Inc. | Inner seal with an overlapping partial tab layer |
| WO2015119988A1 (en) | 2014-02-05 | 2015-08-13 | Selig Sealing Products, Inc. | Dual aluminum tamper indicating tabbed sealing member |
| AU2016226216B2 (en) | 2015-03-03 | 2020-09-24 | Selig Sealing Products, Inc. | Tabbed seal concepts |
| KR102653019B1 (en) | 2016-10-28 | 2024-03-29 | 셀리그 실링 프로덕츠, 아이엔씨. | Single aluminum anti-tamper tab seal member |
| US10934069B2 (en) | 2016-10-28 | 2021-03-02 | Selig Sealing Products, Inc. | Sealing member for use with fat containing compositions |
| US11866242B2 (en) | 2016-10-31 | 2024-01-09 | Selig Sealing Products, Inc. | Tabbed inner seal |
| US11708198B2 (en) | 2018-07-09 | 2023-07-25 | Selig Sealing Products, Inc. | Grip enhancements for tabbed seal |
| US11254481B2 (en) | 2018-09-11 | 2022-02-22 | Selig Sealing Products, Inc. | Enhancements for tabbed seal |
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| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| US2082833A (en) | 1937-06-08 | Method and apparatus for cutting | ||
| US1613567A (en) | 1924-06-10 | 1927-01-04 | Ermin F Plumb | Brick-forming mechanism |
| US3646894A (en) | 1966-12-23 | 1972-03-07 | Gen Mills Inc | Extruding and cutting dough |
| US3739052A (en) | 1970-08-11 | 1973-06-12 | Dow Chemical Co | Scrapless forming of plastic articles |
| US3771393A (en) * | 1971-06-23 | 1973-11-13 | Charles Gatto | Cutting apparatus and method therefor |
| GB1380702A (en) * | 1971-08-11 | 1975-01-15 | Rubber Plastics Research Ass O | Apparatus for determining the processing characteristics of plastic type materials |
| US3856449A (en) | 1972-11-24 | 1974-12-24 | Colgate Palmolive Co | Means for high speed trimming of soap extrusions |
| US4028458A (en) | 1975-08-25 | 1977-06-07 | Transworld Adhesive & Chemical Corporation | Method for making hot melt adhesive sticks and other shapes |
| DE3102065C2 (en) * | 1980-03-08 | 1986-01-09 | Eugen Lutz GmbH u. Co Maschinenfabrik, 7130 Mühlacker | Knife holder for knife shafts or knife heads |
| US4332538A (en) | 1980-10-06 | 1982-06-01 | Campbell Sterret P | Dough divider |
| US4585600A (en) | 1984-11-28 | 1986-04-29 | Hercules Incorporated | Extrusion, conveyance, and cutting system |
| DK153703C (en) | 1985-02-01 | 1988-12-27 | Atlas Danmark | APPLICATION FOR CUTTING OF PIECES OF A PRESERVED LENGTH |
| US5102599A (en) | 1987-11-17 | 1992-04-07 | General Electric Company | Method of and apparatus for cutting tails of viscous material |
| DE19637175C2 (en) * | 1995-09-13 | 2001-12-06 | Aisin Seiki | Device for cutting a curved, continuously fed workpiece |
| US5937521A (en) | 1997-05-23 | 1999-08-17 | Seaward International, Inc. | Method of making extruded plastic members |
-
2000
- 2000-03-23 US US09/535,674 patent/US6458302B1/en not_active Expired - Fee Related
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2001
- 2001-03-22 CA CA002342075A patent/CA2342075C/en not_active Expired - Fee Related
- 2001-03-23 MX MXPA01003034A patent/MXPA01003034A/en active IP Right Grant
Also Published As
| Publication number | Publication date |
|---|---|
| CA2342075A1 (en) | 2001-09-22 |
| US6458302B1 (en) | 2002-10-01 |
| MXPA01003034A (en) | 2002-03-14 |
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| EEER | Examination request | ||
| MKLA | Lapsed |